VAISHESHIKA (Vaiśeṣika), Skt., lit. “referring to the distinctions (vishesha)”; the oldest of the six orthodox Hindu philosophical systems (darshana). Founded by Kanāda, it divides the multiplicity of nature into six categories, the padārthas, and is scientifically rather than philosophically oriented. However, Vaisheshika maintains the view that through the fulfillment of particular duties one may come to know the six padārthas, and that this knowledge leads to bliss.
Source: The Encyclopedia of Eastern Philosophy and Religion: Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, Zen. Shambhala Publications, Inc.
Vaisheshika documents
Books on Vaisheshika
External links: Vaisheshika / Vaiśeṣika Sūtra